November 7, 2021 - First time trying this since release, which I do remember being a hot mess that even a good steak couldn't compliment. This wine has really come around, but still needs a few years to drink at prime. The alcohol is still very present on pnp, but after 30mins or so, it almost presents a fully integrated wine. Layers of blackberry and cassis, with chocolate and earthy notes. Even some leather and cigar nuances. Not extremely sophisticated, but definitely not pedestrian either. A good depiction of a high-quality Rutherford dust cabernet. Probably won't touch another bottle for 2-3 years. 95-96pts for now.
June 18, 2020 - Decanted four plus hours. Last note on this was in 2016 and unlike back then tannins are resolved and this is ready to go. Sweet raspberry and blackberry dominate with milk chocolate, espresso, cassis.... Not the most nuanced wine but who cares it’s delicious. Likely has 10 years in the tank and entering the start of peak drinking now.
March 20, 2019 - A serious wine indeed, perhaps even a bit too serious in its present state, with a Jack Nicholson “You can’t handle the truth” proclamation as soon as it launches its sword-forward attack on the palate. Direct, wired-tight, and a bit mean in its approach. But dammit if it doesn’t command attention when it walks in the room with its militaristic presence.
Blackberry, black plum, pyrazine, black and green peppercorn, crunchy pebbles, river rock, and unripe black cherry. A tannic but not unpleasant bite on the back end, with talc and pulverized granite dusting the tail. A slightly fuzzy but focused finish.
Surely a Scarlett built for aging, and seemingly built correctly. It just needs time. 99 by WA may make sense down the road, but probably not for another 4-5+ years. I say don’t even bother opening this if you don’t have to. Sure, you might be able to manipulate and massage it with various air treatments and get it to talk to you for a few minutes, but after a couple hours of attempted coaxing, it simply left the room.
95-96+ points in its current state. Think MACDONALD or Tynan or Staglin or Spottswoode when approaching this wine. A decade from vintage is needed before you even start thinking about approaching this soldier. It’s gonna be locked at attention for a decent clip.
By comparison, the 2014 is more open for business with its agreeable demeanor. The 2015 shows much more complexity and deliberate expansion on the mid-palate compared to its more linear and furrowed-brow 2013 brother. The 2013 may likely catch up and lap the 2014, but it’s going to have to really work hard to get even close to the likes of the captivating 2015.
February 22, 2018 - Bit of a disjointed experience - my wife and my mother opened this, and I only got a glass after 3+ hours.
I loved it. Somewhat of a mix of Rutherford and Oakville for me, which was amazing. A big wine, and will get better with some time. My first crack at a Scarlett Reserve cab, and no regrets (although it will only get better with time).
December 24, 2016 - Decanted for 3-5 hours. Pitch black color. Still very young and seemingly over exctacted. Almost medicinal like red fruit with alcoholic heat. In several years it might calm down but will never be elegant. Huge style so depends on what you like. Improved dramatically overnight.
July 25, 2016 - Very tight with strong tannins. This needs time. I will wait at least another year.
January 22, 2016 - Really out of balance and mouth numbingly tannic. Over extracted blackfruit, syrupy cassis, and chalky dark chocolate. Triple decanted 5 hours. Drink the regular bottling now and hold the reserve 5+ years.
December 13, 2015 - This Reserve Cab could approach perfection, but not yet because it's
youth. It’s rich depth, yet elegant, smooth and dark in color. Blue / purple ripe dark fruit, sweet-scented blackberries, ripe currants, creme de cassis, dark chocolate and mineral essence. 96 points for now and only because of its youth. It will get better, what a delight!